03/10/09

Staghorns is my favorite place near MSG

by score111

This place is spectacular, they are Romanian, they know fine service. Best porterhouse steak anywhere (sorry Ben Benson) and a reasonable number $$$. Within easy walking distance of the Garden (unless it is raining), and never too crowded to take in a special meal. I always make reservations, but I think you could chance just showing up.

• Pros: I can't buy steak like this anywhere else
• Cons: Drinks a little skimpy, wine list fine!!

01/14/09

Over-bearing service and unexceptional steak

by MrsFlowers79

We travelled to New York City from England to stay for a week at New Year. When we asked our hotel concierge if they could recommend a lively American steakhouse for the Saturday night, this is where he sent us. When we arrived, we could not see through the window that the restaurant only had one other couple eating, otherwise we may not have gone in. We went in and the lady who greeted us was friendly and professional, we were shown to our table and given menus. We chose to have a steak each and share the side order of mashed potatoes but we were made to feel as if we should have ordered starters too (my fiance was sure he heard the waiter say to te manager "they've only ordered steak"). Shortly after we arrived, the other couple left and one other group of people came in. The restaurant was extremely quiet and had no atmosphere whatsoever. While eating our meal, it felt as if the 3 waiters were circling our table like sharks, always hovering close by to attend to our every need. We found this to be intimidating and irritating. The waiters were all Italian American and would talk amongst themselves in Italian, which just added to the intimidation for us.

When the bill came, though it was our own fault, we did not notice that they had added 20% tip for themselves and paid by card, adding $40 tip in cash. We only noticed the next day when we looked at the receipt, but I feel that not only was it extremely dishonest not to bring it to our attention that the tip had been added into the bill just to be sure we were aware, but very cheeky to add 20% tip when I would have personally paid a minimum of 15% as the service was over-bearing, over-attentive and intimidating.

There were more staff than customers and I could not wait to leave. I could not have been more disappointed with that choice for a Saturday night, and would recommend it perhaps for business dinners but nothing more than that.

• Pros: Staff eager to please but go too far and service over-bearing
• Cons: Intimidating atmosphere

11/04/08

Perfect for Special Occasions

by JWolfe2002

Last week I was hosted by a business associate and we were seated within just a few minutes of our 8 PM reservation time. My host had calamari and lamb chops , and I had onion soup and salmon. I don't think these items could have been better anywhere--spectacular presentation, freshness, and flavors. The restaurant was very busy--even on a Wednesday night.

Our waiter was professional and efficient--superb and attentive service to match the expertly prepared food. Our table for 2 was comfortable and not too noisy considering how busy the place was.

So, Staghorn is appropriate for special occasions and expense account meals. You get what you pay for and when you buy dinner here, you receive quality dining at its best. So, I rate Staghorn 5 stars.

• Pros: fresh food,service,ambiance